Posture, alignment, and flexibility are key components to achieving and maintaining balance. Whether you suffer from bouts of dizziness, or sometimes just feel unsteady, the sensation can be frightening and the risk of falling or injury is increased. This, in turn, can really shake your confidence.
Pilates exercises target the specific muscles around the joints that are used for balance and posture. Focusing on stabilizing the body by strengthening and rebalancing the muscles around the joints, Pilates helps improve core body strength, flexibility, and coordination. All key aspects of staying safe, stable, and healthy!
Core and Spine
Bad posture can change your center of gravity and alter your balance. The core of our bodies is comprised of large muscles in the back, abdomen, and hips. Pilates improves the flexibility of the torso and helps stretch and strengthen the back and ribcage muscles. The obliques (muscles around the waistline) are also strengthened, helping you stand taller and become more aware of your posture. Pilates builds core strength and improves spine flexibility as a foundation for overall wellness.
Legs and Ankles
By targeting the specific muscles that strengthen your legs and ankles, your body is better able to balance its center and keep you upright. Pilates offers a range of exercises that strengthen the skeletal structure and improve balance. While some people might believe being able to balance is an instinctive skill, it’s actually something that can be learned and improved! Some people find that one side of their body, or standing on one leg, is easier to balance on than the other. That shows why it’s so important to strengthen and target each individual leg – to bring balance to the body.
Toes and Heels
Pilates will increase the blood flow to your feet and legs, which helps circulation and improves flexibility. As the foundation of the body, it is critical the feet are toned and healthy to feel balanced and strong. Pilates will help you become more conscious of the strength and importance of your toes and heels as you align your core and lengthen your spine. Subtle exercises of the feet can make a world of difference in improving balance and stability.
There’s no reason to feel unsteady on your feet! If you are interested in trying Pilates to build joint strength and flexibility, please contact us – we’d love to develop a program that you, and your body, will love!